How to avoid sickness as the season changes

Spring has officially sprung. And while many of us are excited for the new season, our bodies may not be ready for the change in temperature and weather conditions.

There are, however, plenty of ways to prepare the immune system for the seasonal transition. Consider the following suggestions:

Maintain a balanced diet

Have you ever considered how beneficial a healthy diet is for your immune system? According to George L. Blackburn, M.D., Ph.D., associate director of the division of nutrition at Harvard Medical School, your food choices can essentially make or break your immune system.

“Nutrition plays an important part in maintain immune function,” he told CNN. “Insufficiency in one of more essential nutrients may prevent the immune system from functioning at its peak.”

David Katz, M.D., M.P.H., director of the Yale Prevention Research Center in New Haven, Connecticut, told the source that a balanced diet is critical for overall health and well-being.

“There’s no question the immune system fundamentally is influenced by overall health – and a balanced diet is key,” he said. “Not only are essential nutrients critical for the production and maintenance of key germ-fighting cells in the immune system, but a balanced diet also has a strong effect on vascular function, and the immune system is dependent on blood flow.”

Follow a normal sleep schedule exercise regularly

But that’s not all – exercise also promotes good cell circulation, which gives the immune system’s cells the ability to move around the body and protect it as they should, according to Harvard Health Publications.

As the new season sets in, focus on setting aside time throughout the week to exercise outside.

The warm weather poses the perfect opportunity to go for a jog, hike or walk through nature.

When you don’t give your body the chance to rest, it won’t be fully prepared to perform properly for the following day.

Additionally, not getting enough sleep can lead to fatigue and may increase your risk of catching a cold.

By following a normal sleep schedule, you’re allowing your body to recuperate and regain energy levels needed to thrive.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults aged 26-64 need seven to nine hours of sleep every night.

Those above the age of 65 can get by with seven to eight. Consider these recommendations based on your age.

If you’re having trouble getting the proper amount of rest, consider your sleeping environment. Is it setting you up for success? Make sure your room is dark, comfortable and clutter-free.

Stay hydrated

Proper hydration is another important factor in fueling a healthy immune system, according to Neil Schacter, M.D., medical director of the Respiratory Care Department at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.